The hydration phenomenon in natural rubber latex gloves and its effect on electronic glove monitors

A physical model is presented to explain the phenomenon of hydration in natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves and to account for the observed decrease in electrical resistance of these gloves when exposed to normal saline solution. Microporosity in the rubber is attributed to failure of all latex particles making up a typical glove to completely coalesce with each other and form a continuous film free of interstitial voids. Native proteins and chemicals used in the manufacturing process are suspected of inhibiting coalescence and causing allergic reactions to some wearers after repeated uses. The effect of hydration on the performance of electronic glove monitors is discussed. Glove monitors that can distinguish between hydration and holes are considered to be the most reliable.